Would have been good if GST was passed: PM tells retiring RS members

New Delhi, May 13 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday bid farewell to retiring members from the Rajya Sabha and said it would have been good if the Goods and Services Tax (GST) bill had been passed during their tenure.

“It would have been good if two things were taken up while you were here – one is GST bill,” Modi said.

“Bihar and Uttar Pradesh would have benefited immensely from GST… Barring a few states, all states would have benefited,” said Modi.

The second bill he said was the one to unlock Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) funds.

“Had we decided on CAMPA in this session, states would have got Rs.42,000 crore. That would be Rs.2,000 crore to 3,000 crore per state,” the prime minister said.

He added that the fund meant for afforestation would have been useful as monsoon is approaching.

He said that now monsoon will be over before the bill could be passed in the next session.

“Those who come back I am sure will get this chance, and an important deed for benefit of your state will take place through your hands,” Modi added.

The prime minister also thanked the members for their contribution.

“I thank all the members who in the last six years, fulfilled their responsibilities with two governments and benefited us with their knowledge. Both governments have benefited from it. The house plays an important role in expanding our vision,” he said.

A total of 53 members are retiring from the Rajya Sabha in June and July.